Psalm 86:1-8, 11-17

1Hear, O Lord, and answer me,

for I am poor and needy.

2Guard my life, for I am devoted to you.

You are my God; save your servant

who trusts in you.

3Have mercy on me, O Lord,

for I call to you all day long.

4Bring joy to your servant,

for to you, O Lord,

I lift up my soul.

5You are forgiving and good, O Lord,

abounding in love to all who call to you.

6Hear my prayer, O Lord;

listen to my cry for mercy.

7In the day of my trouble I will call to you,

for you will answer me.

8Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord;

no deeds can compare with yours.

11Teach me your way, O Lord,

and I will walk in your truth;

give me an undivided heart,

that I may fear your name.

12I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart;

I will glorify your name forever.

13For great is your love toward me;

you have delivered me from the depths of the grave.^a

14The arrogant are attacking me, O God;

a band of ruthless men seeks my life—

men without regard for you.

15But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,

slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.

16Turn to me and have mercy on me;

grant your strength to your servant

and save the son of your maidservant.

17Give me a sign of your goodness,

that my enemies may see it and be put to shame,

for you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.